KINGSTON, Jamaica — The youth division of Jamaica’s ruling Jamaica Labour Party has launched a severe critique against Opposition Leader Mark Golding and Health Spokesman Alfred Dawes regarding their handling of inquiries into improperly imported dialysis machines connected to the University Hospital of the West Indies.
In an official statement released Thursday, Young Jamaica characterized the opposition figures’ responses during a recent press conference as ‘unacceptable and disgraceful,’ accusing them of evading critical questions about whether twelve dialysis machines—deemed unlawfully imported using UHWI’s tax exemption status—are currently housed at a facility owned by a prominent People’s National Party MP.
The organization referenced ongoing investigations by Jamaica’s Counter-Terrorism and Organised Crime Branch, emphasizing that Golding’s ambiguous answers during the media engagement had seriously compromised his credibility. Young Jamaica suggested his reluctance to address corruption allegations involving party affiliates demonstrates questionable leadership and ethical consistency.
Additionally, the group highlighted Dawes’ problematic association with the company implicated in the scandal, noting his recent listing as a consultant on the company’s website despite his attempts to distance himself from the controversy. Young Jamaica argued that Dawes’ focus on criticizing Health Minister Dr. Christopher Tufton rather than providing clear answers further weakened his position.
Citing internal discontent within the PNP, the statement suggested that Golding’s handling of the situation has spurred discussions about a potential leadership challenge. While acknowledging the essential role of a robust opposition in a functioning democracy, Young Jamaica called for Dawes’ removal from the health spokesperson role, citing a history of unreliable public statements and unconvincing attempts to dissociate from the scandal.
The group concluded that Jamaica deserves opposition representatives who communicate with transparency and credibility, particularly on matters of public health and governance.